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A financially troubled wildlife park in New Zealand has stated it was forced to humanely kill two of its elderly lions, with the outcome of the remaining five lions still uncertain, following monetary problems.

The privately owned wildlife sanctuary in the northern city of Whangārei ceased operations over the past weekend.

In a online update, the establishment clarified that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a tough decision made by the property owner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The staff and I are heartbroken,” said the sanctuary’s operator.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a big cat facility under new ownership, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the land but considerable financial backing,” the manager noted.

In a later statement, the park verified that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We had to part with two of our lions, both of whom had serious health conditions that were not treatable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the manager remarked.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the remaining five lions, which the sanctuary had earlier indicated would be euthanised.

“A few individuals have expressed interest in buying the property and providing for the lions. Although the deadline is short and the situation remain unresolved, we are doing all we can to pursue this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “viable or ethical choice” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were overwhelmed by comments from concerned citizens, begging for a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while ex-employees expressed hope that the park would reconsider the course of action to euthanise them.

The director mentioned that amid the sympathetic words and expressions of sympathy, she had also encountered threatening and abusive comments.

“This is deeply distressing,” she remarked. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we appeal for consideration and respect as we handle this devastating circumstance.”

The property owner declined to comment.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the determination to put down the big cats was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer explained that euthanasia had to be conducted ethically, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An animal welfare inspector will be onsite to verify this is done properly,” the spokesperson stated. “We are assured that the operation continues to fulfill its animal welfare and containment responsibilities.”

The park attained a degree of notoriety in the early 2000s when it was shown on a TV program about a famous animal trainer.

However, it soon encountered difficulties. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The sanctuary often ran into economic issues and staffing problems, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body instructed the facility to shut down until the enclosures were modernized. It reopened in 2021 but went into liquidation in 2023.